Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic Secures New Home For Celebrity Chef Nikko Cagalanan's Acclaimed Restaurant, Kultura

(Photo Courtesy of Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic)

Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic has announced that broker Hannah Kamba has successfully represented celebrity chef Nikko Cagalanan in securing a new lease for his award-winning restaurant, Kultura, in downtown Charleston.

Cagalanan, a Food Network Chopped Champion and James Beard Award finalist, will relocate Kultura to a 1,965-square-foot space at 267 Rutledge Avenue. The property, formerly home to Chasing Sage, is located in the heart of Cannonborough-Elliottborough, one of Charleston’s most vibrant and rapidly growing neighborhoods. Drew Augustine of The Flyway Company represented the landlord, Times Awastin LLC, in the transaction.

The corner location at Rutledge Avenue and Line Street offers exceptional curb appeal and signage exposure along Septima Parkway. The lease was finalized before the listing officially hit the market, underscoring the demand for prime restaurant space in the area.

“Now, with the support of a professional kitchen and a footprint that’s more than doubled at 267 Rutledge Avenue, we can’t wait to see Chef Nikko thrive and reach new heights,” said Kamba.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Cagalanan immigrated to the United States in 2011 and initially worked as a nurse before pursuing his passion for Filipino cuisine. Alongside his wife, Paula Kramer, he launched Kultura in a modest 760-square-foot space, operating with only induction burners and a small oven. Despite the limitations, Kultura earned national acclaim, including “Best New Restaurant” honors from Esquire and Eater.

In 2022, Food & Wine named Kultura the Best Filipino Restaurant in South Carolina. The following year, The New York Times recognized Cagalanan’s arroz caldo as one of its best dishes of 2024. He was also named a StarChefs Rising Star and a finalist for the James Beard Award in the Emerging Chef category.

The new location is expected to open later this year, with officials noting it is to offer expanded culinary possibilities and a more immersive dining experience for guests.

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